The roadshow enabled the two shortlisted tenderers, Hanwha Defense Australia and Rheinmetall Defence Australia, to identify local businesses that could contribute to their supply chains. Previous tenderers included General Dynamics and BAE Systems.  

The $10 billion to $15 billion program aims to recapitalise Army’s Vietnam-era M113 Armoured Personnel Carrier (APC) force, with a combination of a tracked Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV) and tracked APC.

Defence Minister Linda Reynolds said the LAND 400 Phase 3 project will provide Army with an advanced, world-class IFV capability.

“The Morrison government is investing in the best possible capability for our Australian Defence Force. These advanced vehicles will replace the M113 armoured personnel carriers, providing Army with new levels of protection, firepower and mobility,” said Minister Reynolds.

“It’s fantastic that a record 400 companies were involved in the roadshow. The high level of engagement demonstrates the strength and diversity of the Australian defence industry available to support this critical project.”

Defence Industry Minister Melissa Price said that even following implementation of social distancing restrictions, the Morrison government remained committed to continuing the momentum of the roadshow and ensure that all registered companies had the opportunity to show off their capabilities.

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“Using a videoconferencing platform, the roadshow transitioned to a virtual environment, which replicated the experience of the individual face-to-face meetings,” said Minister Price.

“It follows the successful 2016 LAND 400 Phase 2 roadshow. Across both events, more than 700 meetings have been conducted with local companies for the LAND 400 program.

“Australian industry will be vital to the success of the LAND 400 Phase 3 project, which will create opportunities for a diverse range of companies right across Australia.”